Statement from Mayor Kim Driscoll Following Racist Graffiti at Collins Cove

“I am sorry to report that sometime overnight last night a large quantity of offensive graffiti, including swastikas and other inappropriate and racist content, were painted along the seawall at Collins Cove. The Salem Police Department is investigating this incident and will try to determine who committed this heinous act. Anyone with information or who may have been in the Collins Cove park or path area last night are asked to contact the Police Department at 978-744-1212.

“Salem DPW will work with neighbors and other volunteers who have already stepped forward to offer to help repaint the seawall. Whether this was done with malicious intent or just out of stupidity, it is an action that must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. This incident is evidence that no community, even one as welcoming as Salem, is immune from hatred and that we must remain ever vigilant in denouncing these acts and in supporting efforts to combat bigotry and hatred in any form.

“In Salem, we strive to be a welcoming and inclusive community and, in the wake of this incident, we will continue to work with community partners like Salem’s No Place for Hate Committee, the ADL, and others to educate and advocate toward this goal. We must be tireless in our efforts to bridge our differences and continue to support each other within the diverse, vibrant community that we are fortunate enough to call home.”